Phase one of the project has seen the security area relocated and double in size with an additional four security lanes, taking the total to 22. The new area also features 20 automatic self-serve entrance gates, dedicated lanes for families and passengers with reduced mobility and a fast track lane for premium travellers. The next phase is now underway to create a new centre piece departure lounge.

Mr Goodwill, who today (Thursday) cut the ribbon to mark the official unveiling, said: “It was fantastic to see for myself the transformation of the terminal at Stansted and to hear about how passengers will benefit from measures to keep queues down, including more security lanes and new facilities for families with buggies and wheelchair users.

“By making this investment, Stansted is showing that it is stepping up to the challenges of keeping the UK well connected.”

Managing director at Stansted Airport, Andrew Harrison, said: “This is a great day for Stansted and the millions of passengers who use the airport each year, and we’re delighted the Minister was able to join us today to officially open the new and improved security area.

“In just 12 months since taking ownership we have managed to achieve this major milestone, a key element of our ambition to transform Stansted. I’ve been immensely impressed by the dedication and commitment of our people, the level of support from on-airport partners and above all, the enthusiasm for change at Stansted.

“Our focus is to provide great customer service, value and facilities and put Stansted in the strongest position to compete effectively for new routes airlines and passengers. The transformation of our terminal is a critical element in achieving this aim and central to our future growth plans for the airport.”

Stansted’s owners, Manchester Airports Group (M.A.G.), used research by psychologists to understand the points when passengers feel confused, stressed and relaxed during their time at the airport.

It was all part of a move to identify ways to improve the passenger experience and make travelling through the airport easy, convenient and as relaxed as possible.

The way airlines and passengers use the airport has also dramatically changed over recent years with far fewer passengers using check-in desks or travelling with hold baggage but spending more time in the departure lounge.

The previous security screening area was landlocked in the centre of the terminal meaning all passengers had to pass through check-in even if they didn’t need to be there.

The new security area has been relocated so that passengers entering the terminal without check-in luggage can immediately enter the security area, with the aim of making it a more relaxed and convenient experience.